GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – As El Niño continues to strengthen, global health organizations are emphasizing the importance of ramping up readiness measures. The World Meteorological Organization anticipates the phenomenon reaching very strong levels before the end of 2026. Key concerns include extreme heat, droughts, flooding, wildfire smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Altered rainfall patterns are also likely to put additional stress on food security, water infrastructure, and public health systems in vulnerable regions.
Forecasts indicate a nearly certain continuation of El Niño through February 2027. The ongoing event is being fueled by unusually warm waters across the tropical Pacific, with the most intense conditions expected late in 2026. Such climate variations can significantly change rainfall and temperature patterns globally, causing some areas to suffer drought while others face heightened flood risks. During already warm seasons, heat exposure may also become more severe.
Celeste Saulo, WMO’s secretary-general, has emphasized the necessity of enhanced collaboration between meteorological services and health authorities. She pointed out that climate data should be integrated into public health planning and early warning systems. Urban areas, where roads and structures tend to trap and absorb heat, are particularly vulnerable. The risks are especially high for seniors, children, and outdoor workers during extended hot spells. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing health issues are more susceptible to the adverse effects of prolonged high temperatures.
Health Infrastructure Faces Mounting Climate-Related Challenges
In September, the World Health Organization published a global health assessment on El Niño. The report advocates for proactive measures, including enhanced surveillance and early interventions by national and regional health agencies. It addresses threats related to heatwaves, water scarcity, infectious diseases, and nutrition. Seasonal climate forecasts can help health systems identify periods of elevated risk, while monitoring vulnerable populations remains critical as temperature and rainfall patterns shift.
Rising temperatures and changing precipitation trends create ideal conditions for several mosquito-borne illnesses. Monitoring efforts focus on diseases like malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika. Flooding and disrupted water supplies further escalate risks of cholera outbreaks in exposed communities. Meanwhile, drought can lead to crop failures, diminished water sources, and worsening food insecurity. Currently, more than 150 million people are experiencing severe food insecurity, intensifying pressures in regions affected by climate disruptions.
Rising Heat Waves Compound Risks of Disease and Food Shortages
As El Niño approaches its late-2026 peak, Southern Africa, South America, and Australia are gearing up for their warmer seasons. This period heightens concerns over heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and poor air quality. Elevated temperatures can exacerbate cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic conditions. They also pose mental health challenges and hinder nighttime recovery, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Smoke from wildfires adds another layer of respiratory danger, particularly affecting those with asthma and lung conditions.
Climate and health agencies are intensifying efforts to link weather forecasts with public health strategies. WMO collaborates with partners to enhance climate services for health officials and emergency responders. The WHO remains focused on disease surveillance, preparedness, and quick response measures as El Niño develops. Both organizations recognize early warning systems as vital tools in reducing health risks, emphasizing the use of accurate climate data to facilitate prompt action in affected regions.